How to Talk to a Parent About Getting Help at Home

It can be a difficult conversation. A little preparation, and a lot of listening, usually helps.

Many people worry that suggesting care will be taken as a loss of independence. In practice, the opposite is usually true, because the right support helps someone stay independent for longer.

Choose the moment A calm, unhurried moment is better than the middle of a difficult day.

Lead with what they want Ask what would make life easier rather than listing what is going wrong.

Start small An hour or two of help each week is far easier to accept than a full care package, and it gives everyone time to adjust.

Involve them in the decisions Who visits, when they visit and what they help with should be the person's choice wherever possible.

Be patient It may take more than one conversation. That is normal.